Surya Bahadur Thapa, Nepalese politician, 24th Prime Minister of Nepal (b. 1928)

Surya Bahadur Thapa (Nepali: सूर्य बहादुर थापा; born March 21, 1928, in Dhankuta, Nepal – died April 15, 2015, in Kathmandu) was a towering figure in Nepali politics, distinguished as the only individual to have served as the Prime Minister of Nepal an unprecedented five times. His extensive political career, spanning over five decades, saw him navigate and lead the nation under the reigns of three different monarchs, a testament to his enduring influence and adaptability in Nepal's often turbulent political landscape.

Early Political Footprint and Rise to Power

Thapa's journey in national politics began subtly. In 1955, he held a brief, initial four-day tenure as acting Prime Minister. Despite this short stint, which occurred during a period of significant political flux, he was already widely respected and well-liked for his intellect and approach. His formal ascent continued when he was elected to the Upper House of Parliament in 1959. This marked a crucial step, paving the way for his appointment as the Chairman of the Council of Ministers from 1963 to 1964. This role positioned him at the helm during the early phase of the partyless Panchayat System, which was established in 1960.

A Quintuple Premier: Leading Through Different Eras

Surya Bahadur Thapa holds the unique distinction of being the first Prime Minister appointed under Nepal's Panchayat System. His leadership during this era was significant, with his first full term as Prime Minister lasting from 1965 to 1969. His political resilience was evident as he returned to the top office for another term from 1979 to 1983, a period that saw the national referendum on the future of the Panchayat System.

As Nepal transitioned towards multi-party democracy in the 1990s, Thapa continued to play a pivotal role. He served his fourth term as Prime Minister from 1997 to 1998, demonstrating his ability to remain relevant and influential in a dramatically altered political environment. His final term as Prime Minister was in 2003, showcasing his persistent commitment to public service even in his later years. After concluding his fifth term, he eventually departed from the Rastriya Prajatantra Party in November 2004, a party with which he had long been associated.

Later Years and Legacy

In his twilight years, Surya Bahadur Thapa continued to be an active force in Nepali politics, leading the Rastriya Janashakti Party. His career was characterized by a deep engagement with the nation's governance and a consistent presence at the highest levels of power, adapting to monarchical rule, the partyless Panchayat system, and the complexities of multi-party democracy. Surya Bahadur Thapa passed away on April 15, 2015, at the age of 87. He succumbed to respiratory failure while undergoing surgery in Kathmandu, leaving behind a profound legacy as one of Nepal's most experienced and long-serving political leaders.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Surya Bahadur Thapa?

Surya Bahadur Thapa was a prominent Nepali politician who made history as the only person to serve as Prime Minister of Nepal five times. His political career spanned over 50 years, during which he served under three different kings.

How many times did Surya Bahadur Thapa serve as Prime Minister?

Surya Bahadur Thapa served as the Prime Minister of Nepal for an unparalleled five terms.

When were his terms as Prime Minister?

His terms were: an initial acting PM role in 1955, then as Chairman of the Council of Ministers from 1963–1964, and subsequently as Prime Minister from 1965–1969, 1979–1983, 1997–1998, and finally in 2003.

Under which political systems did Surya Bahadur Thapa serve?

He served under both the partyless Panchayat System (where he was the first Prime Minister) and the multi-party democratic system that followed its dissolution.

Which political parties was he associated with?

He was primarily associated with the Rastriya Prajatantra Party for a significant period. In his later years, he also led the Rastriya Janashakti Party after leaving RPP in 2004.

When did Surya Bahadur Thapa pass away?

Surya Bahadur Thapa passed away on April 15, 2015, at the age of 87 due to respiratory failure during surgery.